WELLINGTON, Aug. 23 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand young people living in rural settings will receive better mental health support thanks to the expansion of youth mental health pilot Piki.
Piki is a pilot program launched in February which helps 18-24 year olds with mild to moderate mental health needs, Associate Health Minister Julie Anne Genter said in a statement on Friday.
"Young people can self-refer, including via the Piki website, and receive support through a dedicated app. Traditional means such as a GP (General Practitioner) referral are also available," Genter said.
"These methods mean Piki will greatly support rural youth, for whom a traditional appointment at a dedicated location can be a barrier to access due to difficulties with travel and others," she added.
The peer support function will also mean young people can receive support from others who have lived experience and can reflect their unique way of living whether they are in a rural or isolated community, Genter said.
Piki remains on track to see the 10,000 young people estimated to receive support over the pilot period, she said, adding this is a significant number of young people who will receive support.
Piki has increased the number of counsellors in the Wellington, Hutt and Wairarapa District Health Board regions, offering youth-friendly services in locations which work for them, according to Genter.
